Exotic-animal enthusiasts flock to reptile show in Morgantown

Hundreds of people filled the Morgantown Event Center Saturday eager to check out some snakes, crocodiles, tarantulas, lizards, turtles and frogs.

The venue hosted the Northwestern Berks Reptile Show, an event which has been running since 1994 and features a wide range of reptiles and exotic animals on display and for sale. Held six times a year in February, April, June, August, October and December, it brings together breeders and reptile lovers from across the country.

Denise Readinger, owner of the event, said the show has grown since it was established more than three decades ago. It was initially held at the Hamburg Fieldhouse until the need for more space led them to Morgantown two years ago.

“It has grown substantially over the years with people coming from all over the country to purchase these animals,” she said. “I love seeing the reaction of the people who come to the show, especially the little ones who might not get a chance to see some of these animals anywhere else.”

Readinger said people who haven’t been to the show may be surprised at just how diverse the crowd can be.

“I know there can be some preconceived notions about the people who own reptiles, but after all these years I have learned that people from all walks of life come to these shows,” she said.

Readinger, who has worked as a nurse at Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center for the past 30 years, said she has even run into a few of her colleagues at the show.

Part of the reason for that broad appeal, Readinger said, is the wide variety of animals at the show. It’s one of the only ones in the region that allows the sale of venomous animals.

“Many shows choose not to promote the venomous industry, and that is something we have always been known for allowing,” she said. “Of course, there are many safety precautions that we must take, but we want to give people that opportunity.”

Precautions include forbidding venomous animals from being removed from sealed containers and mandating that those who purchase them leave the premises immediately following the sale.

“Allowing those kinds of animals is what we have become famous for,” she said.

Selling snakes

It is also known for the number of vendors who take part. Dozens filled the center on Saturday, offering all sorts of animals.

Jim Martin, who owns and operates J.I.M. Reptiles in Bucks County, said he has spent decades trying to educate people about the reasons reptiles — specifically snakes — make great pets.

“Each one has its own personality,” he said. “The movement of a snake is unlike anything else you will ever see and the way they think is incredible to watch.”

Martin said he loves all snakes but is particularly keen on pythons. He said he believes they are among the smartest of the snake species, which means they are often not the best choice for first-time snake owners.

“A python is not for beginners,” he said. “I get to know my customers before I make a sale because I want these snakes to go to good homes with owners who know what they are doing.”

Across the hall, Joel and Jamie Hirsch of Virginia were selling an animal that they believe is one of the friendliest reptiles — bearded dragons. They have owned RVA Dragons for more than five years.

“They are like puppies in lizard suits,” Jamie Hirsch said. “They like to be handled, and they are very attentive.”

Joel Hirsch said at least that’s the case with the bearded dragons they breed. They said that is one of the advantages for people who purchase reptiles at shows rather than online. This way they can interact with breeders, ask questions and handle the animals before deciding if it’s the right pet for them.

“A well socialized bearded dragon from a reputable breeder really makes a difference to the pet owner,” Jamie Hirsch said. “I will meet people who bought their dragons at a big-box pet store and they tell me they can’t handle them because they never got the attention they needed when they were young.”

Interaction is key

That opportunity to meet the breeders of his pets is what attracted Michael Somervair to drive to the show from Williamsport. The snake enthusiast bought a recently hatched brown and white striped California Kingsnake at the show — bringing his total collection of snakes to seven.

“I wanted to come here today so that I could really look around,” he said. “Some of the snakes I have were bought online but I like that I can have a conversation with the person who is selling the snake.”

Somervair said he likes being able to connect with others interested in reptiles. As someone who works with the animals professionally as the zookeeper at Reptiland in Union County, he said it’s both a hobby and career for him.

The event featured more than just reptiles.

Jumping spiders

Atttendees could check out a species that has gained a following lately thanks to social media: jumping spiders.

Marvin Garcia of Lovely Jumpers in Philadelphia said demand has skyrocketed in the past three years. Perched in his hand was a female regal jumping spider, a fuzzy arachnid about the size of a quarter, with iridescent green mouthparts and vivid color patterns.

Jumping spiders are known for their remarkable jumping ability, excellent vision and diversity. Unlike many spiders that build webs, they rely on keen eyesight and agility to pounce on insects.

“They are easy to take care of, really friendly and super docile,” he said. “This is a perfect animal for people of all ages who might not want to make a big commitment.”